Marcrista

Marcrista's luxurious features together with the pristine beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, its beautiful islands and anchorages offer guests the perfect holiday choice.

Marcrista's 5 star accommodation offers guests air conditioned internal comfort. The European design has incorporated tropical rated ventilation for this vessel. Even without air conditioning she offers excellent flow of sea breezes.

The interior is luxurious with warm teak finishes, soft carpets and muted furnishings giving a warm, welcoming ambience. The saloon in the deck house offers 360 degree views of your anchorage. Bose hi fi systems provides quality sound in the saloon which also offers video, DVD and LCD TV.

Deckhouse Saloon Details

• The deck house style saloon offers dining and relaxation in air-conditioned comfort with 360 degree views of your anchorage. Flat screen TV, Bose sound system and large chart table add to the enjoyment of this upper level area.
• The dining table is on the same level as the cockpit and offers larger groups the opportunity to socialise with those in the cushioned cockpit area.
• The large dining table can seat 6 for full table service.
• Upholstered curved lounge provides comfortable cushioned seating in this area.

Port Berth Double Details

• The Port berth offers a large double bed 1900 mm (75'') long and 1400 mm (55'') wide at shoulders.
• Full length wall mirror
• Airconditioned with adjustable ducts
• Opening port hole
• Hull port hole
• Separate reading light

AFT Berth Details
The aft berth has a large double bed with cabin window, opening port hole to the cockpit and hull port hole and offers:

• Thermostatically controlled airconditioning
• The double measures 2110 mm (83'') long and 1220 mm (48'') at shoulders
• Excellent seagoing berth.
  
• The aft berth is normally occupied by crew whilst having guests. It can be made available if having a group of 3 couples. The crew then sleeps in an enclosed double in the cockpit area.

Master Bedroom Details
The forward master bedroom is the most luxurious berth and features -

• Thermostatically controlled airconditioning
• Two opening deck hatches and two rain proof dorade vents
• Two hull port holes
• Large double berth 2070 mm (81 '') long 1350 (53'') wide at shoulders
• Luxuriously padded curved 2 seater lounge
• TV and Video
• Bose hi fi system
• Large teak framed mirror
• Ensuite with full size dometic toilet and basin
• Large mirror with overhead lighting
• One opening deck hatch with privacy blind and two rain proof dorade vents

Bathroom Details:
Marcrista's bathroom offers a full sized enclosed shower with wall mounted shower rose. It is light and airy with:

• Opening deck hatch with privacy blind
• Full size domestic toilet and basin
• Large wall mirror
• Opening port hole and dorade vent
• Shower Fan
• Hair dryer
• Separate storage for wet weather gear

Gallery Details:
Marcrista's galley is fully equiped to allow for the preparation of a wide range of menus.

• For safety reasons the galley is all electric
• Front opening bar fridge and top opening fridge and freezer for great capacity
• Blanco 4 element hot plate (gimbled) & range hood
• Full size domestic convection microwave oven and griller (gimballed)
• Bosch Dishwasher
• Jug, toaster & electric stainless steel frypan
• Hot bread make & food processor
• Large stainless steel BBQ in the cockpit extends catering options
• Airconditioned
• Two opening port holes
• One opening deck hatch
• One dorade vent

Additional information

Your Luxury Private Charter Yachts, Cruising Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Islands
The Operator offers Luxury Cruising and relaxed sailing to remote pristine reefs and Tropical Island destinations. Your fully crewed charter on Marcrista is personalised and can include attention to your special interests - Sailing, Snorkelling, Diving, Adventure Cruises, Romantic honeymoons, Game fishing, Marine Photography, Marine biology, Seabird life, Isolated reefs, Frontier wilderness locations, Pristine sand cays, Lush tropical rainforested Islands, Coastal Rainforests, The South Pacific's best reefs, Historical cultural Aboriginal tours, Outback wild life and fishing safaris.

Destinations include - The Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest, Bloomfield, Cooktown, Lizard Island, Haggerstone Island, Poruma Island, Cape York, Torres Strait Islands, Papua New Guinea, Louisiade Achipelago and many other South Pacific Tropical Island destinations. A cruise on Marcrista can be for a few hours, a day or overnight extended. It is always special, unique and is always about ... YOU. 

General Information
The Operator's crewed charters offer guests a luxurious, air-conditioned 52 ft fast sailing cruising yacht superbly equipped with the latest electronics and 'creature comforts.' She is beautifully finished with warm teak interiors softened by white ceilings. Her European class is apparent in her design yet she has a warm, welcoming ambiance. 

This atmosphere is mirrored by the warm hospitality offered to all guests by her hosts - owners, Mark & Chris. They have extensive experience in the Charter Industry and as guests your enjoyment and sense of well being will be their first priority.

The pristine beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, her deserted idyllic islands, tropical rain forests and dramatic coastline combine to make this a once in a lifetime holiday choice. The flexibility in itineraries with Exclusive Charter ensures guests' activities, interests and destinations are paramount. Extended cruising is also available for those who would like to 'Live the Dream' without the responsibility of boat ownership!

For those contemplating exclusive chartering the Operator offers the following information.
Exclusive chartering on Marcrista gives you the flexibility to have a luxurious floating home where the scenery changes on a daily basis. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most spectacular, pristine reefs in the world, offering beautiful vistas both above and below the surface. The lagoon area between the Outer Reef and the Coast offers excellent, relaxed sailing, access to uninhabited islands and spectacular coastal rainforests areas North of Port Douglas. You can settle into the comfort of your own accomodation and then fully utilise your holiday time without further personal dislocation.
The Operator talks to guests prior to their charter to personalise their time aboard.This may encompass their menus, sailing time, diving, on shore activities, music and videos.
The Operator is happy to advise on any land content, tours or accomodation that guests may require outside their time on Marcrista.
Guests are advised to pack economically and use soft bags which can be stored easily. Soft white or gum soled shoes for boat use only, and shoes for use on land, are essential. 

Marcrista, the luxury charter yacht, is setting sail for the ultimate South Pacifc Adventure in Vanuatu
Marcrista renowned for her 5 star charters on The Great Barrier Reef, where she has cruised for the past four years, visiting remote areas from Port Douglas to Lizard Island, is relocating to Vanuatu for a short period.

Mark and Christine are offering their services to a very limited number of guests from July to October 2007. This is a rare opportunity to experience this unique untouched island paradise on your own luxurious private yacht.

Vanuatu is a Y shaped chain of 83 unspoilt islands lying peacefully in the pristine waters of the South Pacifc. These islands exude an alluring atmosphere of intrigue and romance and ultimately seduce all those lucky enough to visit their shores.

Their charm lies in the natural beauty of the scenery and the authentic and unique cultural experiences gained from interacting with people still living ancient and traditional native lifestyles.

The people are reputed to be amongst the happiest, most peaceful people in the world. Their warmth and simplicity is engaging and draws visitors back to discover more about their way of life.

Vanuatu - offers an incredible range of experiences both culturally and geographically.
Lush green tropical islands, white powdery beaches, deep blue swimming holes, cascading waterfalls with rock pools and palm fringed secluded beaches add to the magical feel. Sweetly perfumed fowers, fragrant sandalwood trees, water birds and falcons, turtles, dugongs, whales, dolphins and megapod birds are only a small sampling of the natural delights of the islands. One island alone has 84 varieties of orchids.

One of the amazing attractions is the world’s largest accessible volcano situated on the island of Tanna.Pentecost Island is renowned for its vine jumpers – the world’s original bungy jumpers and the islands of Efate and Santo have incredible opportunities for snorkelling or diving. Coral reefs are in abundance and there is a marvellous array of soft corals, tropical fsh and sealife.

Santo has the largest accessible ship wreck in the world, the President Coolidge, and is a much sort after destination for diving enthusiasts. There are jungle treks through lush virgin forests that visit isolated scenic locations and villages and offer breathtakingly beautiful panoramas – and always without the tourist hordes!

Basically unaffected by modern day tourism and life styles, the outlying islands offer a soft, safe ‘once in a life time adventure’ for the most discerning travellers.

They offer a timeless, authentic cultural experience where islanders live traditionally and guests have the unique opportunity to glimpse a way of life, long lost to western cultures.

Communal living, dancing, music, art and magic are all part of the experience and differ from island to island. Pigs are still prized possessions and are still used as currency in certain situations.

Many ceremonies that have been passed down through the ages are still celebrated by villagers and their Chief and traditional clothing is still woven and worn.

The rich volcanic soil produces an abundance of organic meats, fruit and vegetables and the ocean yields a harvest of mouth watering sea life.

The most exciting, beautiful and remote islands generally offer only basic accommodation. Cruising on Marcrista offers guests the best of both worlds. Luxurious accommodation, fne dining, 5 star service, the highest levels of safety and the ability to visit normally inaccessible islands whilst enjoying warm and friendly hospitality aboard your ‘foating home.

The Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsunday region is one of nature's most remarkable gifts, not only blessed by the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef but 74 tropical islands in a shimmering, liquid blue expanse. This aquatic playground is the perfect escape for indulging in island fantasies and sailing adventures.

Whitsunday Activities
The Whitsundays is sure to keep you busy with plenty of activities such as beach games at island resorts and championship golf courses with a view, to the buzzing nightlife in the coastal town of Airlie Beach. Choose to sail in the calm waters visiting magic destinations on a daily basis. You can venture further North for extended cruising.

Beautiful Beaches
The Whitsundays are host to some of the most spectacular and unspoilt beaches in the world. Consistently voted as one of the best, Whithaven Beach on Whitsunday Island is a jewel in the Whitsundays crown. Don't miss the experience of walking along this 6km stretch of sweeping, pure white silica sand.

Bushwalking
Those who walk through the National Parks on the Whitsunday Islands will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the turquoise seas and surrounding islands. Walking tracks lead into the heart of the forests, which enable you to marvel at the massive strangler figs, stands of red and white cedars and the exotic wild orchids hanging in clusters from ancient trees.

Dining and Nightlife
At night, the activity starts all over. Visitors can select from excellent pub meals through to quality restaurants offering either buffet or a-la-carte menus. Many establishments on both the coast and island resorts feature live music, karaoke and nightclubs . It is little wonder that the nightlife in the Whitsundays is so famous with the large variety of venues catering for every taste and budget.

Diving
The Great Barrier Reef which stretches approximately 2,200 km along the east coast of Australia is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. There are over 1000 islands that are easily accessible from North Queensland.

Port Douglas is very well positioned in terms of access to the outer reef and some of the best dive sites exist in this area. Just north of Port Douglas, the reefs come right ot the shore and meet the tropical rain forests. A myriad selection of marine life abounds in these pristine waters. The diversity and colour of corals, large and small fish, giant clams, turtles, starfish, and various plant life is breathtaking.

To fully maximise diving oppurtunities, the best option is for Marcrista to liase with the most professional and knowledgable Dive Masters in these areas. They have access to the premium locations and excelent local knowledge of the marine life.

Additonal costs will apply for diving and guests will be notified of charges prior to commencement of charter. Certified divers will need to provide proof of certification. Beginners can also participate and be instructed in either diving or snorkelling at an additional cost.

Weather
The Operator's home port of Port Douglas and its surrounding areas enjoy temperatures ranging from approximately 31 degrees in Summer to a very pleasant 25 degrees approximately in Winter and early Spring.
The South East Trade wind is the dominant influence in this area with the most persistent trade winds blowing between April to November.
Light to moderate winds often prevail making conditions inside the Reef pleasant for sailing and relaxing.

Personalised Itineraries
Luxury Charters operate in an area which is listed as one of the Natural Wonders of the World - the beautiful expanses of the Great Barrier Reef. The Operator offers personalized itineraries which offer guests the opportunity to sample some of the pristine areas and concentrate their time in activities and areas of their choice.

The Operator can offer island hopping or longer sailing passages. A sampling of land content can be offered taking in rainforest areas or nature walks on secluded islands. For those wishing to experience more fully some of the exclusive resorts the Operator can offer a Sail/Stay package with return commuting by air for variety and time expediency.

Diving, snorkeling and fishing are popular activities in these areas and the Operator can satisfy your requirements so far as excellent locations and equipment is concerned.

If you would like to combine your leisure time with the desire to pursue a particular interest whilst on board, whether it be Sail Training, Marine Biology, Meditation etc. The Operator will do the best to satisfy your needs. For those whose love is sailing the Operator is happy to share the helm and nautical knowledge!
Honeymoons or weddings on board are one of the special joys - a privilege to share in such wonderful times. Marcrista makes a beautiful floating chapel with some magnificent photos circulating around the world to prove it!

Welcome families on board - preferably with children over the age of ten. The Operator delights in their company and enthuse about the benefits of quality family time spent in such an environment, with the opportunity for so many shared adventures.

Draft Itinerary - Extended Charter - Port Douglas to Lizard Island with return fight to Cairns.
The Operator will arrange luxury transfers from either Cairns, Palm Cove or Port Douglas to Marina Mirage. If guests are arriving on a late fight into Cairns the Operator can usually offer accommodation on the yacht the evening prior to departure. A private inbound charter fight can also be arranged from other locations.

Day 1.
Set sail from the tropical village of Port Douglas aboard your 52 ft Luxury Yacht at approx 7.30 am for Mackay or Undine Sand Cay and Reef. Enjoy safe, relaxed sailing for approx 3 hrs and arrive at the pristine, white Sand Cay arising from crystal clear, turquoise waters. Land on the Cay and enjoy a celebration drink and take some very special photos. After a light lunch on Marcrista  sail further north for 3 hrs following the coastal, rainforested mountains, to a new location, Hope Island East, a pretty, sand fringed island offering a sheltered, protected and calm anchorage for the night. If time permits, land on the island and enjoy the frst snorkel from the beach.
Enjoy happy hour on the white cushioned decks as the sun sinks behind the mountains or land on the island and watch the sunset from the sandy shores. The frst dinner is usually a Seafood Banquet, fresh tropical fruit and King Island Cream. Soft mood music compliments the tropical island setting. This is the frst day in Paradise.

Day 2.
After a slower start there is the opportunity for a snorkel either before or after breakfast. A walk around the Island to experience the variety of sea birds followed by a snorkel off the beach back to the yacht is a great start before set sail for Cooktown - Australia’s Frontier Historical Town This leg takes approx 3 hours of relaxed cruising. Arrive in the afternoon and anchor in the Endeavour River. Then take you on a tour of Cooktown including the renowned James Cook Museum, Cooktown Grassy Hill Lookout, Black Mountain, Lions Den Pub and Captain Cook’s landing site. If circumstances permit, may visit a local who cares for and raises orphaned baby wallabies and kangaroos. This evening the Operator offers a gourmet BBQ on the yacht with King Island fllet steak, gourmet lamb and sweet chilli, sausages and prawns with select salads. Mango ripple Ice cream is served with fresh fruit.  Overnight in this pretty natural harbour.

Day 3.
Set sail for Lizard Island
Depart the picturesque harbour for approx 6-7 hours of relaxed sailing passing Cape Bedford and Flattery with its white sand cliffs and several deserted islands. Arrive in the afternoon at the beautiful Northern Bays on the sheltered side of the Island and snorkel in the pristine waters of Watson’s Bay. Absorb the atmosphere that makes this one of the most popular isolated destinations in the world - a must for discerning travellers. Enjoy happy hour on the beach toasting the sunset which showers its colour over the ocean. Overnight in this beautiful sheltered Bay.

Day 4.
Lizard Island the Jewel of the Reef. After breakfast on deck the Operator discusses with guests their preferred options they can experience the very best of the reef and the beautiful locations of this world class site. The choice of unique snorkelling sites is boundless. Watsons Bay has a beautiful pristine beach and is also the starting point for several interesting island walks.

Lizard Island Watson’s Bay
Guests short on time, who have to depart today, will fy back to Cairns, usually in the afternoon. The preferred option is by private charter in a twin 6 seater high wing plane with a choice of a scenic option, which offers fying at 1,000 ft. for a spectacular view of both reef and rainforest.
EVERY GUEST WHO VISITS LIZARD ISLAND, CRAVES MORE TIME AT THIS INCREDIBLE LOCATION.

If time allows you can easily add more fun flled days to the itinerary. See below for some exciting options.

Day 5 , 6 ,7 or longer.
The Operator discusses with guests their preferred options depending on their personal preferences.

EXTENSION OPTIONS:
Below are just a few of the choices available. Each option would offer a full day of adventure and fun. After a relaxed breakfast you can choose from one of the following exciting options:

The renowned Clam Gardens Watson’s Bay offers great snorkelling followed by time to relax under shady trees on the white sandy beaches. Your crew will ensure you have snacks and cold drinks at hand. Happy hour drinks on the beach as the sun sets is the regular activity to end a perfect day.

Sail to Eagle Island, pristine and isolated, with its long stretches of deserted beaches and turquoise water. It is a superlative destination for a day trip. The vista of eagles soaring overhead enhances this special day.

Cruise East to The Cold Hole if conditions are suitable. This is rated as one of the 10 best dive sites in the world and is also one of the most superb snorkelling sites in the world - a must see kaleidoscope of tropical sea life. This location is at the very edge of the continental shelf and the reefs’ outer edge.

The Blue Lagoon, with its superlative Lumus Reef, offers an extensive variety of tropical fsh life and colourful corals. It is the defnitive tropical location as seen on alluring posters around the world. There is an interesting and educational Marine Research Station in this location used by scientists and marine biologists from around the world. It is an exciting place to visit.

Visit Mermaid Cove, with its incredible snorkelling opportunities and soak up the peace and solitude of this private cove with its white sandy beaches, mountain backdrop and ocean vistas. The outer edge of the Cove offers awesome drop off snorkelling. A picnic on the secluded beach is another special experience.

For those who enjoy some extra exercise there is a wonderful walk to Cook’s Look which gives an elevated view of the vast outer reef areas, sand cays and the layout of Lizard Island itself. After the walk there is time for snorkelling at some of the premium sites. Another shorter walk is across the Island to the Blue Lagoon offering great photographic opportunities.

To give guests the greatest possible time experiencing the wonders of the reef, the Operator always fys them back to Cairns with the fight taking approx 1 hour. The most popular option for the return to Cairns is a private charter fight in a 6 seater high wing twin with the choice of a scenic option which offers fying at 1,000 ft for spectacular views of both Reef and Rainforest. The private option allows a connection with your outbound fight if appropriate. The regular domestic air service is also available with 2 fights most days around midday and later in the afternoon.
Return fights are priced separately.

Guests comments
Just the best 4 day trip ever. Fab food, the best reefs, great local knowledge from Mark & Chris who are great hosts. Totally first class.
(Family of 4) Chris & Eve. Sunningdale UK

It doesn’t get better than this. Thank you for planning every detail of our trip as if it were your own vacation. It was a one of a kind trip that even most Australians don’t get to experience.
Candace & Jeff, Weston, CT. USA

These were amongst the best three days of my life. Thank you both so much. What fun we had in your company – truly memorable.
Charlotte & Robert, North Yorkshire. UK

Absolutely the best holiday we have been on. The reef was wonderful, your company was fantastic. Great time, great food. Once again thank you from both of us for the best experience of my life.
Darlene & Norm. Winnepeg Canada

Mark & Chris, thank you for the wonderful cruise aboard Marcrista. Terrific company, 5 star accommodation, great sailing and snorkeling, fantastic food, good music. This is a holiday that will be treasured through memories and pictures.
Mark & Merle, Regina. Canada

Thanks for an unforgettable, 5 days aboard Marcrista. Fantastic time together as a family. Fantastic time for the soul. Couldn’t have asked for more. We have chartered in Tonga, Turkey, Indonesia and Whitsunday’s, but this was the best.
(Family of 4) John & Rosemary, Castlecray. Australia